BONNYVILLE, Alta. –
The World Junior A Challenge - a showcase of Canadian and international
Junior A talent - is returning to Bonnyville, Alta., for the second time in
three years when the town hosts the event Dec. 9-15, 2018.

The 2018 World Junior A Challenge represents a partnership between Hockey
Canada, the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), and Hockey Alberta, as
well as the local host committee and NHL Central Scouting. Similar to
previous years, two Canadian teams – Canada East and Canada West – will
compete with four international entries for a gold medal in Bonnyville.

“
Bonnyville was an excellent host to teams, fans, and our partners at the
2016 World Junior A Challenge, and it’s great to be returning there in
2018,” said Dean McIntosh, vice-president of events and properties with
Hockey Canada. “Its previous success and strong community support in 2016
resulted in a strong legacy for the community, and we look forward to
continuing to support the growth of and development of hockey, and the
positive financial impact to the area, with this year’s tournament.”

The World Junior A Challenge host committee will look to emulate the
success of the 2016 event, which was staged by nearly 150 community
volunteers.

“The level of support we received in 2016 from the region, funding
partners, and volunteers was truly incredible,” said Robb Hunter, co-chair
of the local host committee. “This support is the reason our group has the
opportunity to bring the elite competition of the World Junior A Challenge
back to Bonnyville so quickly, and we are excited to create another
memorable event for all participating teams through the continued passion
for junior hockey in our community.”

Team Canada West claimed its fifth gold medal at the 2017 World Junior A
Challenge in Truro, N.S., defeating the United States 5-1 in front of a
sell-out crowd at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre.

“Every year, the competition at the World Junior A Challenge appears to be
stronger and the fan support continues to grow,” said CJHL president, Brent
Ladds. “Bonnyville has proven to be a remarkable host city with outstanding
community support, and we look forward to working with our partners and the
host committee to ensure both players and fans celebrate another memorable
tournament.”

Of the 12 gold-medal games at the World Junior A Challenge, 10 have
featured at least one Canadian team. Team Canada West has captured gold
five times (2006, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2017), silver three times (2008, 2009,
2012), and bronze once (2013). Team Canada East has won a medal six times,
taking home silver five times (2006, 2007, 2010, 2011, 2016) and bronze
once (2008).